MusiMentes: Home-based musical interventions for people with mild cognitive impairment and mild dementia, a randomized controlled trial protocol

Abstract

Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) and Mild Dementia (MD) represent a growing challenge in Latin America, with an estimated prevalence between 11-28% in people over 65 years. Musical interventions have shown potential benefits for cognitive functioning and emotional well-being in this population. Objective: To evaluate the efficacy of the "MusiMentes" home-based musical intervention protocol on cognitive functioning and emotional well-being in patients with MCI and MD, as well as its impact on the patient-caregiver relationship. Methods: Single-blind, randomized controlled trial with 50 outpatients (50-80 years) diagnosed with MCI or MD and their primary caregivers. The experimental group will perform active and personalized musical interventions ("MusiMentes"), while the control group will engage in passive music listening, both for 30 minutes, three times per week for 12 weeks. Cognitive functioning (MOCA, MIS), executive functions (TMT, DST), emotional well-being (EADG, PANAS, WHOQOL-BREF, VAMS-R), and patient-caregiver relationship (SQCRC) will be evaluated at three time points: pre-intervention, post-intervention, and three-month follow-up. Relevance: This study will provide evidence on the effectiveness of home-based musical interventions in early stages of cognitive decline, contributing to the development of accessible and personalized therapeutic strategies in the Latin American context.